Prospect Interview: Trenton Cannon

NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

Every year we have players go under the radar for whatever reason. Some are over shadowed by teammates, some are small school guys. But the good ones have a way of separating themselves. They do it in a variety different ways. Highlight plays to get noticed, a career of full production & a multi skill set to help a team in more than one way. It just so happens that Trenton Cannon checks all those boxes & more.

Cannon is a dynamic RB/Returner from Virginia State. He has shot area quicks & explosive burst to jet past defenders. A versatile skill set that can make an impact in a number of ways including helping in the return game. Cannon avg over 7+ ypc for his career while being the focal point on offense. He has 3rd down, special teams factor back written all over him.

Some notable achievements…

Virginia State’s all-time leading rusher

1st Team All-Conference (CIAA) as a running back and kick returner

Candidate for The Harlon Hill Award (Division II College Football Player of the Year) … Two-time All-CIAA 1st Team (2016 and 2017)

One of four players nominated for black college football player of the year.

1)Can you talk a little bit how you ended up at Virginia state?

I originally started at Shepherd University. I transferred and walked on Virginia state spring 2015 for a better opportunity to play.

2)When I look at a player I try to look for traits that translate to the next level. What are your traits the translate?

Traits that I have that Translate to the next level are my athleticism, speed and versatility

3)What do you miss most about your hometown?

My favorite Hometown memories that I miss the most will probably be the family cookouts and get-togethers

4)Do you look at other running backs and try to take any of the good qualities for yourself?

I do like to take certain parts from good running backs like Bell with the Steelers. He is one of the most patient running backs I’ve ever seen.

5)Name one of your favorite all-time TV shows?

One of my favorite TV shows of all time is Martin.

6)In 2017 you were nominated & one of the finalists for the black college football player of the year, what does that mean to you?

Being nominated for Being nominated for the black college player of the year means a lot knowing that I was nominated as one of the four best hbcu players in 2017.

7)What’s the biggest off-the-field obstacle you had to face?

Biggest off the field obstacle was graduating college. I had to juggle a busy football schedule 18 credits but I graduated in December.

8)Regardless of competition what are some good running back traits?

Some good running back traits are decent speed patience explosiveness blocking and receiving ability.

8)I noticed that your receiving production increased this past year. Was that a product of the game plan or something that you’ve been practicing on & have gotten better with on your own?

I will have to say a little of both with increased production and just working on that part of my game.

9)Have any teams contacted you?

I have had the chance to a good amount of teams in contact me through the process.

10)Who are your music favorite artists?

Two of my favorite artists J Cole and Future

11)What are you looking for pre-snap and post now from the defense?

Pre-snap I watch for the alignment of the defense & where the linebackers are. I’m thinking score every time the ball is in my hand. I let the play develop. And look for any opening up front to make it past the defensive line and linebackers and most of the time use my speed to do the rest.

Post snap I’m looking for changes in the defense alignment and if there are any cutbacks before I reach the lane

One that is shown in the CB section but not mentioned is Darious Williams of UAB. The Patriots visited and scouted UAB at the end of Aug and also attended their Pro Day. Williams was named to PFF’s All American 1st Team Defense in 2017 along with